Authorities in Moscow have launched a manhunt after the severed head of a young boy was discovered inside a backpack thrown into Golyanovsky Pond. Sources citing law enforcement indicate the child, believed to be between seven and ten years old, was strangled before being beheaded. Preliminary reports suggest asphyxia as the cause of death, with marks and bruises on the neck indicating forced strangulation.
The gruesome discovery was made early Sunday by workers near the pond, eight miles northwest of the Kremlin. Police are reviewing security camera footage and are seeking a suspect described as around 5ft 11in, medium build, seen throwing the bag into the water two days ago.
A search of the pond by divers did not recover additional human remains. Officials are investigating the case, while the boy’s identity has not yet been confirmed.
This incident comes amid a series of tragic child deaths globally, including a two-year-old boy in Italy who died after being accidentally strangled by his jumper at a nursery, prompting a manslaughter investigation.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as the investigation continues.
